Bandall introduces SmartBand® to North America

Combining branding and real-time variable data printing in one band, SmartBand® makes its North American debut at PACK EXPO 2026.

SmartBand® was officially introduced to the international packaging industry at Interpack 2026.

Turning packaging into a connected process

Packaging lines today often rely on separate systems for weighing, printing, and labeling. This leads to fragmented workflows, additional handling, and increased risk of errors. SmartBand® brings these functions together into a single, continuous operation.

With SmartBand® technology, product data is captured, processed, and printed in real time, directly onto the band during application. By embedding data directly into the banding process, the band becomes a functional data carrier. This enables packaging to play a more active role in efficiency, traceability, and product identification.

Branding and variable data in one band

SmartBand® combines pre-printed, branded banding material with real-time, product-specific information. Variable data, such as weight, price, barcodes, QR codes, batch numbers, and expiration dates, can be printed directly onto the band during application.

This allows manufacturers to maintain consistent branding while adapting information to individual products, batches or production requirements, without the need for a separate adhesive label.

One application is the integrated weigh-print-band process, particularly relevant for fresh and variable-weight food products such as meat, fish and ready-made meals. Products are weighed individually, with corresponding weight and price information printed directly onto the branded band.

For private-label manufacturers and co-packers, the technology also offers flexibility across different brands, products and SKUs.

Enabling new applications across industries

SmartBand® enables new applications across a wide range of industries by integrating variable data printing directly into the banding process. In food processing, it allows weight and price information to be printed during banding, supporting the efficient handling of variable weight products, such as meat and fish. In industrial laundry, SmartBand® enables product-level identification through variable data printing, improving traceability, personalization, and the efficiency of sorting and logistics processes. By embedding data directly into the packaging workflow, SmartBand™ expands the functionality of packaging while maintaining a simple and efficient production line.

Simplifying packaging processes and materials

By combining printing and banding in one continuous process, SmartBand® can reduce separate labeling steps, simplify workflows and minimize manual handling.

Printing variable information directly onto the band can also eliminate the need for an additional adhesive label and its release liner, reducing packaging components and associated liner waste.

Banding as a strategic alternative in packaging

The launch of SmartBand® reflects Bandall’s broader vision for the future of packaging.

Packaging today is often more complex and material-intensive than it needs to be. With SmartBand®, we demonstrate how banding can evolve into a smart, integrated solution that supports both operational efficiency and sustainability.

Bram van Roosmalen, CEO of Bandall.

Bandall positions banding as a high-impact alternative to traditional packaging methods, such as labels, sleeves, and shrink wrap, offering a cleaner, more efficient, and more flexible approach while significantly bringing down overall packaging volume.

Bandall SmartBand® will initially be available in selected regions, with a phased global rollout.

Experience SmartBand® at PACK EXPO Chicago

Visitors to PACK EXPO International 2026 can experience SmartBand® during its exclusive North American launch. At booth LU-8349, Bandall will demonstrate its integrated weigh-print-band application alongside its wider portfolio of banding solutions. Additional information about the new technology and its applications, and on-site SmartBand® demonstrations are available upon request.

This article was originally published by Bandall.